When temperatures soar during a heatwave, you may wonder what the best approach is to get enough exercise. It may be tempting to stay at home and just wait for the hot weather to pass, or you may be keen to get your steps and still go out for a walk in the evening.
Or perhaps your air-conditioned local gym is the best place to be, and you could just stick to your normal fitness routine. Fitness expert Jess Bass, from Ten Health & Fitness, shared some thoughts on this question.
She said: “A common mistake people make during hot weather is thinking exercise has to be all or nothing. It doesn’t. In fact, one of the most effective things you can do during a heatwave is reduce the intensity rather than stop moving altogether.”
She spoke about how you could change up what you do to get the right amount of exercise. The fitness professional said: “Swapping a run for Pilates, mobility work or strength exercises performed in a cooler environment helps you stay active while placing less stress on your body.
“The goal isn’t to push through the heat, it’s to keep moving in a way that supports your body rather than placing it under unnecessary stress.”
Strength and mobility
She said it’s a good idea to get good quality exercise rather than just pushing through despite the high temperatures. Ms Bass said: “Your body is already working harder to regulate its temperature, so this isn’t the time to chase personal bests or push through fatigue.
“Instead, opt for shorter, lower-intensity sessions that prioritise strength, mobility and control. Pilates is particularly well suited to hot weather because it helps develops strength, stability and flexibility without relying on prolonged high-intensity effort.”
Another helpful tip is to think about when you are doing your exercise. Ms Bass said: “Early mornings and later evenings are generally cooler, making movement feel more comfortable and reducing the physiological strain of exercising in the heat. Staying hydrated before, during and after activity is equally important.
She also said to look out for some key signs that it’s time to slow down. The expert said: “Don’t ignore warning signs such as dizziness, nausea or excessive fatigue – they’re your body’s way of telling you that you have already reached your limit.”
The fitness instructor said the key thing is to be consistent. She explained: “Even 20 to 30 minutes of purposeful movement can help maintain strength, mobility and joint health. A heatwave should encourage us to adapt our exercise habits, not abandon them altogether.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
